VIDEO: Arctic Dip stirs people to respond

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Published:15:05Friday 18 December 2015

FRANTIC fundraisers have taken an ‘arctic dip’ in a bid to keep two groups running.

Their antics in the sea off Worthing on Tuesday have captured people’s attention, raising more than three times the target so far.

Su Parrish and Luke Woodjetts from The Springboard Project

The Springboard Project, based in Crawley, is working to save two of its groups for disabled children and teenagers - Worthing Grasshoppers and Crawley Buddies.

Su Parrish, service delivery manager, said: “At the moment, the Springboard Project is facing some significant funding challenges, with the financial support for these two groups ending on December 31.

“For the foreseeable future, we will be keeping these groups going using cash reserves and short-term fundraising initiatives, while we look for longer-term funding.”

Su joined Luke Woodjetts, short breaks co-ordinator, for the Arctic Dip, completely submerging themselves in the sea without wetsuits but dressed as Santa’s elves.

Standing at the water's edge on Worthing beach

Su said: “We have done fantastically well so far. People have seen the video and I think they feel sorry for us.”

They hoped to raise £300 but have already topped £1,100. To make a donation, visit Arctic Dip.

Springboard runs three Grasshoppers groups, in Horsham, Crawley and Worthing, offering regular holiday activities and a Saturday Club during term time for children with disabilities or special educational needs aged five to 12.

There are two Buddies groups, in Horsham and Crawley, which provide a range of evening and holiday activities for teenagers with disabilities.

Submerging into the sea dressed as Santa's elves

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